Silicone chew toy

ABSTRACT

A chew toy product is made of multiple layers of silicone. Liquid silicone layers are vulcanized to a solid silicone layer to form a unitary solid silicone chew toy. Each of the layers can include a silicone colorant, so the chew toy can have multiple colors.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/258,972, filed Apr. 22, 2014, issued as U.S. Pat. No.9,781,904 on Oct. 10, 2017, which is a divisional of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/953,457, filed Nov. 23, 2010, issued as U.S.Pat. No. 8,703,036 on Apr. 22, 2014, which claims the benefit of U.S.applications 61/263,646, filed Nov. 23, 2009. These applications areincorporated by reference along with all other references cited in thisapplication.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a chew toy and a process of making such a chewtoy, and more specifically, to a multilayered or multicolored siliconechew toy and its manufacture.

Chew products such as chew toys are used for a variety of reasons.Animal chew products are for dogs, cats, birds, rodents, rabbits, andother pets or domesticated animals. There are infant or baby chewingtoys too, such as those used by teething human infants.

Chew products provide oral care and hygiene benefits. Chewing on chewtoys provide the beneficial action of the tugging and pressure on theteeth and gums that serve to toughen the gums and clean the teeth for acontinuously healthy mouth. Chew toys can help prevent tartar and plaquebuild-up on the teeth. This helps diminish bad breath, keeps teethwhiter, and reduces the risk of potentially serious dental problems.

Chewing on chew toys also provides behavioral benefits by stimulatingactivity and exercising the mouth and jaw. Chew toys can prevent petsfrom chewing on furniture or shoes in the household or other destructiveactivity. For puppies and human infants, chewing on chew toys can alsohelp relieve teething pain and stimulate the growth of adult teeth.

Further, vinyl and latex toys are potential safety hazards, easily tornapart and pieces swallowed, with potential for heavy metals in thematerial or decorations. Rubber toys have a potent rubber smell andtaste that many dogs do not like.

Therefore, there is a need for improved chew products.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A chew toy product is made of multiple layers of silicone. Liquidsilicone layers are vulcanized to a solid silicone layer to form aunitary solid silicone chew toy. Each of the layers can include asilicone colorant, so the chew toy can have multiple colors.

Silicone chew toys can have any number of vibrant colors without the useof paint (as compared to the coloration of typical rubber and vinyl chewtoys). In a chew toy, the use of paint is potentially dangerous becausethe paint may contain lead, mercury, or toxic substances when ingested.

A chew toy can be made according to the process as described in thispatent. The chew toy will be 100 percent silicone with no paint. Thechew toy has antifungal and antibacterial properties. The chew toy canbe of any color and there can be additional artwork of multiple vibrantcolors. The coloration of the chew toy will not stain or fade over time.The chew toy will be odorless and tasteless. The chew toy can be made ofvarious sizes to accommodate different mouth and pet sizes, such assmall- to medium-sized dogs. The silicone chew toy encourages healthychewing.

The silicone chew toy is hygienic. The silicone chew toy can be easilycleaned, such as by immersing the toy in a pot of boiling water for afew minutes. The toy will easily withstand 100 degrees Celsius and evenhigh temperatures without damage.

In an implementation, a silicone chew toy includes: a base layer, madefrom a solid silicone material of a first color, comprising a first sideand a second side, a thickness of at least 16 millimeters between thefirst and second sides, a minimum width of at least 38 millimeters, anda minimum length is at least the same as the minimum width; and a firstlayer, made from a liquid silicone material of a second color, formedand vulcanized on the first side of the base layer, the first layerhaving a thickness of at least 0.5 millimeters, wherein the first coloris different from the second color, and the silicone chew toy comprisingthe base and first layers can withstand at least 100 pounds of bitepressure for at least 10 seconds without breakage.

Further, the silicone chew toy of claim 1 includes: a second layer, madefrom a liquid silicone material of a third color, formed and vulcanizedon the first side of the base layer, the first layer having a thicknessof at least 0.5 millimeters, wherein a pattern of the second layer onthe first side encloses a pattern of the first layer on the first side,and the third color is different from the first and second colors.

In various implementations, the first layer has a greater thickness thenthe second layer. The length of the base layer is at least about 135millimeters, a maximum width of the base layer is at least about 65millimeters, and the base layer has a first end portion joined to amiddle portion, which is joined to a second end portion, the middleportion has a width of at least the minimum width and less than themaximum width, and the first end and the second ends have a width of themaximum width.

A gap, between the pattern of the first layer and the pattern of thesecond layer, in which the base layer is visible between the patterns ofthe first and second layers. The base layer is solid silicone comprisinga silicone colorant of the first color and the first layer is made fromliquid silicone comprising a silicone colorant of the second color.

The silicone chew toy includes: an opening in the base layer; and

an interior cavity in the base layer, the interior cavity being jointedto the opening, wherein through the opening an edible substance can bestored in the interior cavity.

The opening and interior cavity extends in a line across a surface ofthe base layer. The silicone chew toy includes: a hole extending fromthe first side to the second side of the base layer; and a rope, loopedthrough the hole in the base layer.

In an implementation, a method of making a silicone chew toy includes:combining a solid silicone material with a first colorant, wherein thefirst colorant is a liquid silicone material, to obtain a firstcombination; placing the first combination of the solid silicone andfirst colorant into a first cavity of a mold; layering a solid coloredsilicone into the mold on top of the silicone mixed with the first andsecond colorants; compressing the mold; and heating the mold.

The method further includes: mixing a liquid silicone material with asecond colorant wherein the second colorant is a liquid siliconematerial, to obtain a second combination; and placing the secondcombination of the liquid silicone and second colorant into a secondcavity of the mold.

The combining a solid silicone material with a first colorant includes:outputting the colored liquid silicone comprising the first colorantfrom a syringe. The first and second colorants are different hues.

In an implementation, a method of making a silicone chew toy includes:mixing liquid silicone with first silicone color paste; loading syringeswith the colored liquid silicone; inserting the colored liquid siliconein cavities of a mold according to a pattern; heating to set the liquidsilicone; mixing solid silicone with second silicone color paste;layering the solid silicone material into the mold on top of adecoration; vulcanizing the solid and liquid silicone together, whereinthe vulcanizing comprises closing the mold; cooling the solid and liquidsilicone; and trimming a silicone flashing.

Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent upon consideration of the following detailed descriptionand the accompanying drawings, in which like reference designationsrepresent like features throughout the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a front view of a silicone chew toy.

FIG. 2 shows a back view of the silicone chew toy.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the silicone chew toy.

FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the silicone chew toy.

FIG. 5 shows a specific implementation of a multilayered silicone chewtoy.

FIG. 6 shows a specific implementation of a silicone chew toy having abase having a rectangular shape and a feature.

FIG. 7 shows a specific implementation of a silicone chew toy.

FIG. 8 shows specific steps for making a chew toy.

FIG. 9 shows a specific implementation of a treat dispenser toy having acavity.

FIG. 10 shows a top view of the treat dispenser toy.

FIG. 11 shows a bottom view of the treat dispenser toy.

FIG. 12 shows a cross sectional view of the treat dispenser toy.

FIG. 13 shows a cross sectional view of a chew toy having a round shapedcavity.

FIG. 14 shows a chew toy.

FIG. 15 shows another view of the chew toy.

FIG. 16 shows another view of the chew toy.

FIG. 17 shows a cross sectional view of the chew toy.

FIG. 18 shows a bottom view of the chew toy.

FIG. 19 shows a cross section of the chew toy having a cavity in FIG.14.

FIG. 20 shows a front view of a specific implementation of a treatdispenser toy having a surface and ridges.

FIG. 21 shows a side view of a treat dispenser toy and a ridge.

FIG. 22 shows a chew toy including a ridge having a slope less thanzero.

FIG. 23 shows a specific implementation of a treat dispenser toy havingridges that extend toward a side.

FIG. 24 shows a front view of a dispenser chew toy having a rocket shapewith ridges.

FIG. 25 shows a front view of the rocket dispenser toy.

FIG. 26 shows a cross-sectional view of the rocket dispenser toy.

FIG. 27 shows a bottom view of the rocket dispenser toy.

FIG. 28 shows a specific process flow for making a silicone chew toyhaving a cavity.

FIG. 29 shows a chew toy having a silicone portion and a rope portion.

FIG. 30 shows a specific implementation of a chew toy package having achew toy, a card, and wires.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a front view of a specific implementation of a siliconechew toy 101. FIG. 2 shows a back view of the silicone chew toy. FIG. 3shows a side view of the silicone chew toy. FIG. 4 shows across-sectional view of the silicone chew toy.

FIG. 1 shows a front 104 of a base of the chew toy while FIG. 2 shows aback 204 of the chew toy. In an implementation, the base of the chew toyis made of solid silicone. In an implementation, the silicone is a foodgrade silicone that is safe for use with foods. The silicone base can bemade of any color by using a silicone colorant in the silicone basematerial. The silicone is integrated with the silicone so the coloringwill not fade or rub off. The silicone base can have a vibrant color(e.g., bright purple, bright red, bright yellow, or bright green)without painting the surface of the silicone. And the coloring willremain vibrant throughout the product's life.

A process of the invention facilitates the placement of artwork or otherornamentation (of different colors) on the silicone base. Artwork orother ornamentation can be applied to silicone base 104 by applyingcolored layers. For a solid silicone base, liquid silicone of differentcolors (using a silicone colorant) can be layered onto the siliconebase. The front and back can have the same or different ornamentation.For example, the chew toy as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 has differentartwork on the front and back sides. For example, the front may have anintricate multicolored scatter pattern on the front side, and a messagein text on the back side.

Further, there can be a different number of colors or layers on thefront side as compared to the back side. For example, the front side mayhave two or more different colors (both different from the base) whilethe back side may have only one color (different from the base). Inanother example, the front side has two or more different colors (bothdifferent from the base) and the back side has two or more differentcolors (both different from the base). Both front and back sides can bemulticolored, but the surface ornamentation or shapes on the two sidescan be different. For example, the front may have multilayered ormulticolored circles while the back has multilayered or multicoloredsquares.

In FIG. 1, the ornamentation on the front side of base 104 has threetypes of ornamentation objects, a first object 108, a second object 109,and a third object 111. These objects are formed on the surface of base104. The base can include one or more of the object types shown anddescribed in this application in any combination. For example, the basecan have multiple first objects 108. The base can have a first object108 and multiple second objects 109. The base can have only thirdobjects 108 and no first and second objects 108 and 109.

The process of the invention facilitates object types being positionedanywhere as desired on the base, back or front, left or right, top orbottom, or above or below. For example, the first object can be to theright of the third object. The second object can be above the firstobject.

First object 108 has a single layer of one color, which can be formed byusing liquid silicone having a single silicone colorant. The color ofthe first object can be the same color as the base. A single layer canbe used to create a raised texture or other surface patterning (seediscussion below for FIG. 4) for the chew toy. For example, numerousdots or other features can be formed on the surface as interestingtextures for the tongue to feel or to aid with tongue cleaning.

Alternatively, the color of the single layer can be different from thebase or may have a different hue or shade from the base. This can beuseful for making the first object become more visible with respect tothe base background color. Object 108 is shown as a rectangle but can beany artwork including any shape (e.g., polygons (open or closed),circles, squares, triangles, trapezoids, or octagons), lettering, text,graphics, or pictures (e.g., a house, tree, or roller skate).

Chew toy 101 includes a second object 109 consisting of a first feature112 a and a second feature 112 b. In an implementation, these multiplelayers are each made using liquid silicone having a single siliconecolorant, and can be the same or a different color relative to eachother, or have a different hue or shade relative to each other. Forexample, in an implementation, first feature 112 a is light green,second feature 112 b is dark green, and the base is bright blue. Inanother implementation, first and second features 112 a-112 b are lightyellow and the base is purple.

Second feature 112 b has an inner outline or cutout, and first feature112 a is positioned within the cutout. In an implementation, the inneroutline or cutout in the second feature is a similar shape as the outeroutline of the first feature. In this implementation, first feature 112a has a rectangular-shaped outline, and second feature 112 b has arectangular-shaped cutout. First feature 112 a is located within therectangular-shaped cutout of the second feature such that the cutoutborders or frames first feature 112 a. Between the outline of firstfeature 112 a and the inner outline of the cutout of second feature 112b is a space 120 in which the base surface is visible. When the basesurface is visible, this creates a more colorful display on the chewtoy.

In another implementation, an inner outline or cutout of second feature112 b borders a perimeter of first feature 112 a such that the base isnot visible between the cutout and first feature 112 a.

Third object 111 has two single layer features 116 a and 116 b, whichare similar to what was described above for object 108. Features 116 aand 116 b can be the same color or different colors or hues from eachother. A feature 116 c surrounds features 116 a and 116 b. There is aspacing 135 and 137 between feature 116 c and features 116 a and 116 b.Note that feature 116 c has a portion 138 that divides or is in betweenfeatures 116 a and 116 b. This can be useful for ornamentation wherefeatures 116 a and 116 b are the same color, while feature 116 c(including portion 138) are a different color.

Feature 116 c is shown to have two openings 135 and 137 to accommodatefeatures 116 a and 116 b. However, in other implementations, feature 116c can have more than two openings, such as 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 ormore. Further, within each opening, there can be multiple features ormultiple layers (e.g., more than 1 layer such as 2, 3, 4, 5, or morelayers).

In FIG. 1, third feature 116 c has two rectangular-shaped openings orcutouts within it. First feature 116 a has a rectangular-shaped outlineand is positioned within a first rectangular-shaped opening of thirdfeature 116 c. Second feature 116 b has a rectangular-shaped outline andis positioned within a second rectangular-shaped opening of thirdfeature 116 c.

However, although features 116 a, 116 b, and 116 c are shown asrectangularly shaped items, it should be understood that these featurescan be of any shape as desired and as described above with respect toobject 108.

Paste or gel treats (e.g., peanut butter or jam) can be spread over asurface of the chew toy. For example, after spreading the paste treatover the front surface of the chew toy, space 120 can be at leastpartially filled with peanut butter. The peanut butter may also at leastpartially fill spaces 135 and 137. In an implementation, the peanutbutter is between first feature 112 a and second feature 112 b. To tastethe peanut butter, a pet will gnaw at the chew toy, bite the features,or lick the surface of the chew toy. Because the peanut butter is at ahard to reach spot compared to other surfaces of the chew toy, the petmay use the chew toy for a longer period of time.

The peanut butter may also be spread over first object 108. To taste thetreat, the pet will continue to gnaw at first object 108. The tactilefeel of the first object will improve the pet's dental hygiene.

As was discussed, the back of the chew toy can have any number of thetypes of objects described with respect to the front. FIG. 2 shows aspecific implementation of a back of the chew toy. This implementationhas an object of a single layer 208 (similar to object 108 describedabove) attached to the base surface. In a specific implementation,object 208 has a single color. For example, the back side can havelettering “Chew!” in a bright yellow color on a purple-colored base.Some other examples of lettering include “fetch!,” “puppy love,” “bestfriend,” “woof,” “good dog,” or “a woman's best friend.”

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the chew toy. As explained above, each ofobjects 108, 109, and 111 is a layer formed on the base surface and forma raised patterning. The heights and thicknesses of the objects can varyas desired. For example, FIG. 3 shows a specific implementation withvarying heights for the different layers.

Each of the features 108, 112 a-112 b, 116 a-116 c, and 208 have aheight above the base surface. As shown in the figure, feature 108 has aheight 308, feature 112 a has a height 312 a, feature 112 b has a height312 b, feature 116 a has a height 316 a, feature 116 b has a height 316b, feature 116 c has a height 316 c, and feature 208 has a height 320above the base surface. Height 308 of feature 108 is greater than height312 b of feature 112 b, and height 312 b of feature 112 b is greaterthan height 316 c of feature 116 c. Further, height 312 a of feature 112a is approximately the same as height 316 a of feature 116 a, andheights 312 a and 316 a are greater than height 316 b of feature 112 b.The heights of the features above the base surface may be the same ordifferent relative to each other. Further, a height of the features canvary depending on the features or the toy. In a specific implementation,the heights range from 0 millimeters to about 8 millimeters. Forexample, the height of the feature or layer above the base may be about0.5 millimeters, 0.75 millimeters, 0-1 millimeters, 1 millimeter, 1.2millimeters, 1-2 millimeters, 2 millimeters, 3 millimeters, 2-3millimeters, 4 millimeters, 5 millimeters, 6 millimeters, or 8millimeters. In other implementations, the feature may be greater than 8millimeters, such as 8.1, 8.5, or over 9 millimeters.

The different heights give a texture patterning on the top, and give thechew toy a pleasant tactile feel. When a pet mouths the chew toy, thepet will have a firm grip on the silicone chew toy. Also the user cangrab the toy, and it will less likely to slip, even when wet (e.g.,saliva from the pet). Further, the heights also give a three-dimensionaleffect to the chew toy, which makes the toy more interesting.

FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of silicone chew toy 101. As shown,each of the objects is formed directly on the silicone base. This patentdescribes forming objects directly on the base. The principles of theinvention also include forming objects on previously deposited or formedobjects. For example, after a first pattern if formed on the base,additional layers and patterns can be formed on the first pattern,rather than the silicone base itself. Multiple layers of liquid siliconecan be formed onto one another to give, for example, multicolor layeredobjects.

The process of the invention permits forming of objects in relativeclose proximity to each other. A distance between features can varydepending on the desired design of the chew toy. In an implementation, adistance between feature 112 a and feature 112 b is approximately 3millimeters. In another implementation, a distance between feature 112 aand feature 112 b is between approximately 0.05 millimeters and 3.5millimeters.

As discussed above, ornamentation can take any artwork form. As anexample, FIG. 5 shows a specific implementation of a multilayeredsilicone chew toy 501 having a base surface 504 and star shapes on thebase surface. In this specific implementation, the base surface has afirst layer feature 508 a and second layer feature 508 b. The firstfeature is star-shaped, and the second feature is star-shaped and has astar-shaped cutout within it. The first feature is positioned within thestar-shaped opening of the second feature such that a portion of thebase surface is visible.

In an implementation, second layer feature 508 b is 1 millimeter inheight and first layer feature 508 a is between 1 and 2 millimeters inheight. In this implementation, a height of first layer feature 508 a isequal to or greater than a height of second layer feature 508 b. In animplementation, a height of a feature is not greater than 3 millimeters.

In an implementation, a distance from an outer edge of feature 508 a andan inner edge of feature 508 b is approximately 3 millimeters.

In an implementation, a dimension limitation for each level of theornamentations may vary. For example, in a specific implementationhaving 3 levels of features, each level is no greater than 3 millimetersthick. In another implementation, each level is between 0.5 to 3millimeters thick.

A degree of curvature on the surface decoration can vary. In animplementation, a degree of curvature limitation is approximately 35degrees. The degree of curvature can be less than or greater than 35degrees. For example, in another implementation, a degree of curvatureis between 25 to 35 degrees. In another implementation, a degree ofcurvature is between 35 to 45 degrees.

The chew toy is formed with dimensions such that the chew toy will notbe a choking hazard for a pet. If the chew toy is too small and can beeasily swallowed or may otherwise be harmful for the pet. The length andwidth of the chew toy can vary. For example, in an implementation for adog, the chew toy has a length of about 13.5 centimeters and a width ofabout 6.5 centimeters near an edge of the chew toy and a width of about3.5 centimeters near a center of the chew toy.

In an implementation, the chew toy is thick enough to withstand pressurefrom the pet's bite such that the chew toy is not punctured or brokenwhen gnawed or bitten. For example, when a dog bites the chew toy, thedog does not bite through the chew toy. The chew toy is durable andlasts longer. The thickness of the chew toy can vary. For example, in animplementation, a thickness of the silicone base chew toy is at least1.25 centimeters. In another implementation, the thickness of thesilicone base chew toy is at least 0.8 centimeters. The ornamentationand designs are built on top of the silicone base.

A specific implementation of a chew toy having characteristics anddimensions as described in FIG. 1 and FIG. 5 passes laboratory testingthat simulate use and abuse by children. Specification of the laboratorytesting and methods are describes in 16 U.S.C. 1500.53, which isincorporated by reference.

Specifically, the chew toy has at least satisfactory colorfastnessproperties in a colorfastness test. The colorfastness test is AmericanAssociation of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) test method107-2009, which is incorporated by reference. This test method isdesigned to measure the resistance to water of dyed, printed, orotherwise colored textile yarns and fabrics. Distilled water ordeionized water is used in this test method because natural (tap) wateris variable in composition. The specimen, backed by multifiber testfabric, is immersed in water under specified conditions of temperatureand time, and then placed between glass or plastic plates underspecified conditions of pressure, temperature and time. The change incolor of the specimen and the staining of the attached multifiber testfabric are observed.

In particular, the chew toy can be put into the dishwasher for cleaningwithout fear of destroying the ornamentation or color of the chew toy.For example, in an implementation, the chew toy is put into a dishwasherfor at least 5 cycles and no visual change will occur in the chew toy.

Dry and Wet Crocking Test. The chew toy also has at least satisfactorycolorfastness properties in a dry and wet crocking test. Crocking is atransfer of colorant from a surface of a chew toy to another surface orto an adjacent area of the same surface. For a color (e.g., pattern) anda body (e.g., blue body), a result of a wet and dry crocking testevaluation has at least a minimum of 4.0 dry and 3.0 wet. A result of awet and dry crocking test evaluation has a 4.5 dry and 4.5 wet result ofa wet and dry crocking test evaluation. In another implementation, a dryand wet result may be different and may vary.

Colorfastness to Saliva Test. The chew toy has at least satisfactorycolorfastness properties in a Saliva test. Specifically, the chew toy ofFIGS. 1 and 5 has negligible or no staining from saliva. GermanPreliminary Standard, DIN V 53160-1:2002-10 Determination ofcolorfastness of articles in common use—Part 1: Resistance to artificialsaliva is incorporated by reference. DIN EN 20105-A03,Textiles—colorfastness tests—Part A03: Gray scale for the evaluation ofbleeding is also incorporated by reference.

Bite Test. The chew toy of FIGS. 1 and 5 can withstand a bite test,which simulates a pet or person biting the chew toy. Specifically, thechew toy has no breakage after experiencing 100 pounds of compressionfor 10 seconds. Further, the chew toy has no breakage after experiencing400 pounds of compression for 10 seconds.

The bite test conditions are: Bite test for a toy (or component) that isa mouth toy shall be subject to this test. Test equipment: Contactmechanism: The contact mechanism shall be two metal strips or plateseach measuring 0.25 inch 0.002 inch (0.635 centimeter) high and eachhaving a contact edge radius of 0.020 inch 0.002 inch (0.5 centimeter)for at least a 150-degree cross-sectional arc. Loading device: Theloading device shall be a scale or force gauge having an accuracy of 0.5pound (225 grams). Testing procedure: The test article shall be placedin the contact mechanism in any reasonable position for a penetration of0.25 to 0.5 inch (0.64 to 1.27 centimeters), which position utilizesless than 180 degrees of the arc of the contract mechanism, and a testload increasing to 100 pounds (45.50 kilograms), plus or minus 0.5pounds, shall be evenly applied within 5 seconds. This load shall bemaintained for an additional 10 seconds.

Torque Test. The chew toy of FIGS. 1 and 5 can also be the subject of atorque test. In an implementation, the chew toy has no breakage afterexperiencing 4 inch-pound for 10 seconds.

The torque test conditions are: A toy with a projection, part, orassembly that a child can grasp with at least the thumb and forefingeror the teeth shall be subject to this test. Toys with rotatingcomponents. Projections, parts, or assemblies that are rigidly mountedon an accessible rod or shaft designed to rotate along with theprojections, parts, or assemblies shall be tested with the rod or shaftclamped to prevent rotation. Test equipment: Loading device: The loadingdevice shall be a torque gauge, torque wrench, or other appropriatedevice having an accuracy of 0.2 inch-pound (0.23 kilogram-centimeter).Clamp: The clamp shall be capable of holding the test component firmlyand transmitting a torsional force. Testing procedure. With the toyrigidly fastened in any reasonable test position, the clamp is fastenedto the test object or component. A torque of 4 inch-pounds 0.2inch-pound (4.60 kilogram-centimeters) shall be applied evenly within aperiod of 5 seconds in a clockwise direction until a rotation of 180degrees from the original position has been attained or 4 inch-pounds0.2 inch-pound (4.60 kilogram-centimeters) exceeded. The torque ormaximum rotation shall be maintained for an additional 10 seconds. Thetorque shall then be removed and the test component permitted to returnto a relaxed condition. This procedure shall then be repeated in acounterclockwise direction.

Tension Test. The chew toy can also be the subject of a tension test. Inan implementation, the chew toy has no breakage after experiencing 21pounds for 10 seconds (e.g., after a tension test).

The tension test conditions are: Any projection of a toy that the childcan grasp with at least the thumb and forefinger or the teeth shall besubject to this test. This test is to be conducted on the same toy thathas been subjected to the torque test described in 16 U.S.C. 1500.53,paragraph (e). Stuffed toys and beanbags. A stuffed toy or beanbagconstructed of pliable materials having seams (such as fabrics) shallhave the seams subjected to 15 pounds 0.5 pound (6.80 kilograms) offorce applied in any direction. Test equipment: Clamps: One clampcapable of applying a tension load to the test component is required. Asecond clamp suitable for applying a tension load perpendicularly to themajor axis of the test component is also required. Loading device: Theloading device is to be a self-indicating gauge or other appropriatemeans having an accuracy of 0.5 pound (225 grams). Testing procedure.With the test sample fastened in a convenient position, and appropriateclamp shall be attached to the test object or component. A 15-pound 0.5pound (6.80-kilogram) direct force shall be evenly applied, within aperiod of 5 seconds, parallel to the major axis of the test componentand maintained for an additional 10 seconds. The tension clamp shallthen be removed and a second clamp appropriate for pulling at 90 degreesshall be attached to the test object or component. A 15-pound 0.5 pound(6.80-kilogram) tensile force shall be evenly applied, within a periodof 5 seconds, perpendicularly to the major axis of the test componentand maintained for an additional 10 seconds.

Other objects may have lead in paint or similar surface coatingmaterials. Children's products may contain lead that is harmful. Thechew toy passes a lead test (e.g., lead in accessible substratematerials) and a phtalates test.

Lead in accessible substrate materials. The chew toy of FIGS. 1 and 5can pass a test of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, section101, which is incorporated by reference. A method CPSC-CH-E1002-08Standard Operation Procedure for Determining Total Lead (Pb) inNon-Metal Children Product is incorporated by reference.

The CPSIA lowers the amount of lead that can be in children's products.Section 101 sets new limits for the lead content in children's productsand the amount of lead in the paint used on those products. Lead ContentLimits: The limits on the amount of lead in children's products arephased in over the course of three years. By Feb. 10, 2009, productsdesigned or intended primarily for children 12 and younger may notcontain more than 600 parts per million of lead. Children's productsthat contain more lead than 600 parts per million are banned in the U.S.after Feb. 10, 2009, and the sale of those products can result insignificant civil and criminal liability. The statute provides thatpaint, coatings or electroplating may not be considered a barrier thatwould make the lead content of a product inaccessible to a child. After1 year from enactment, or Aug. 14, 2009, products designed or intendedprimarily for children 12 and younger cannot contain more than 300 partsper million of lead. The limit goes down to 100 parts per million afterthree years, or Aug. 14, 2011, unless the Commission determines that itis not technologically feasible to have this lower limit.

Some children's products may be exempted or excused from these new leadlimits if a component part containing lead is inaccessible. TheCommission will provide guidance by rule on what component parts areinaccessible within a year. The Commission will also evaluate whethercertain electronic devices, including devices that contain batteries,must comply with the lead limit.

Lead in Paint Limit: In addition, after 1 year or Aug. 14, 2009, the Actprovides that paint and similar surface-coating materials for consumeruse must be reduced from 600 parts per million to 90 parts per million.

Phthalates. The chew toy of FIGS. 1 and 5 can pass a test of theConsumer Product Safety Improvement Act, section 108, which isincorporated by reference. A method ASTM D3421-75 is incorporated byreference.

The phthalates prohibition applies to three phthalates, DEHP, DBP, andBBP, which have been permanently prohibited by Congress in concentrationof more than 0.1 percent in “children's toys” or “child care articles.”A “children's toy” means a product intended for a child 12 years of ageor younger for use when playing, and a “child care article” means aproduct that a child 3 and younger would use for sleeping, feeding,sucking or teething. Three additional phthalates, DINP, DIDP, and DnOP,have been prohibited pending further study and review by a group ofoutside experts and the Commission. This interim prohibition applies tochild care articles or toys that can be placed in a child's mouth orbrought to the mouth and kept in the mouth so that it can be sucked orchewed that contains a concentration of more than 0.1% of the abovephthalates.

The prohibition on phthalates applies to all parts of a children's toyor child care article as defined in section 108 of the CPSIA. Section108 does not make an exception or exemption for accessibility forphthalates as is the case for lead in children's products under section101.

Section 108 limits the amount of phthalates in children's toys andcertain other child care articles. A children's toy is a consumerproduct designed or intended by the manufacturer for a child 12 years ofage or younger for use by the child when the child plays. Anydetermination as to whether a particular product is designed andintended for use by a child 12 years of age or younger, would be made ona case by case basis after consideration of the following factors:

A statement by the manufacturer about the intended use of the product,including a label on the product if such statement is reasonable.Whether the product is represented in its packaging, display, promotionor advertising as appropriate for use by the ages specified. Whether theproduct is commonly recognized by consumers as being intended for use bya child of the ages specified. The Age Determination Guidelines issuedby the Commission staff in September 2002, and any successor to suchguidelines. A manufacturer must apply these factors their products andthen consider whether it is “for use by the child when the child plays”to determine whether a product meets the definition of a children's toy.The use of the product by the child for play is a fundamental aspect ofsuch a determination. The Commission will be evaluating this using stafffrom Health Sciences, Human Factors, and Compliance, and hopes toprovide additional guidance on this issue. In the interim, theCommission staff plans to use the definition of toy in the ASTM F963-07toy standard for guidance.

In an implementation, a base of the chew toy is made from 100 percentsilicone. Silicone is a soft and flexible material. For example, a dogcan sink his teeth into the chew toy comfortably while the chew toymassages and stimulates his tongue and gums. The chew is made from aflexible material and can bend and recover its shape. Silicone has anelasticity in a range from about 30 to about 70 percent. Liquid siliconehas an elasticity in a range from about 30 to about 50 percent. Solidsilicone has a durometer in a range from 40 to 70 (e.g., Shore ADurometer). Liquid silicone has a durometer in a range from 30 to 50(e.g., Shore A Durometer). The ASTM D2240 type A standard isincorporated by reference.

In another implementation, the base of the chew toy is part silicone(i.e., not 100 percent silicone). For example, in anotherimplementation, portions of the chew toy are silicone while otherportions, attached to the silicone portions, are made from leather,rubber, or other material. The tougher the material of the chew toy, thethinner the chew toy can be because the material of the chew toy canwithstand more pressure without breaking compared to silicone.

The shape of the bone has been described as being shaped like a bone.This is not intended to limit the invention. The base can be formed ormolded to have any desirable shape. The base can have other shapes suchas a heart, gingerbread man, dog or other animal, disk or circle with ahole in the middle, or others. The dog toy can be designed to haveseasonal interpretations such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas,Hanukkah, Tet, Valentine's Day, Fourth of July, National Dress Up YourPet Day, Pet Dental Health Month, National Pet ID Week, Be Kind toAnimals Week, National Dog Day, and others.

For example, FIG. 6 shows a specific implementation of a silicone chewtoy having a base having a rectangular shape 604 and a feature 608.

Further, in FIG. 1, second feature 112 b has a similar cutout shape asan outer outline shape of first feature 112 a. This is not intended tolimit the invention. The shapes of the outer outline and cutout can beany shape. The shapes of the outer outline and cutout can be the same,similar, or different from each other.

For example, FIG. 7 shows a specific implementation of a silicone chewtoy. A first feature 704 has a heart-shaped shape and a first area. Asecond feature 708 has an ovular-shaped outer outline 712, arectangular-shaped cutout 716, and a second area. Since the secondfeature has a cutout, an area of the second feature is less than an areaof the second feature without the cutout. The first feature ispositioned within the rectangular-shaped cutout. Between therectangular-shaped cutout and the first feature is space 720, in which abase of the surface can be seen.

A specific process flow for making a chew toy of the invention ispresented below, but it should be understood that the invention is notlimited to the specific flows and steps presented. A flow of theinvention may have additional steps (not necessarily described in thisapplication), different steps which replace some of the steps presented,fewer steps or a subset of the steps presented, or steps in a differentorder than presented, or any combination of these. Further, the steps inother implementations of the invention may not be exactly the same asthe steps presented and may be modified or altered as appropriate for aparticular application.

FIG. 8 shows a flow for making a silicone chew toy:

1. Liquid silicone is mixed with a colorant, which is also a siliconematerial (step 808). The silicone colorant will color the liquid to anydesirable color. As described above, there may be multiple colors ofliquid silicone used in a single dog chew item. The liquid silicone canbe the same or differently colored (or different shade) from the basesilicone material. Liquid silicone typically melts at about 160 degreesCelsius (or a temperature above this), which is lower than the meltingpoint of solid silicone.

2. Syringes are loaded with the colored liquid silicone (step 812).There can be multiple colors or hues of colored liquid silicone, each ina separate syringe. For example, if a three-color chew toy is desired,there would be two syringes with two different colors of silicone. Thesewould be differently colored from the base silicone. Depending on theintricacy of the patterning, there can be 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 or moresyringes of different colors used to create a single chew toy item.

3. The colored liquid silicone is inserted in cavities of a mold (step816). The mold will have the patterning, lettering, or shapes that themanufacturer desires to have placed on the surface of the base. A sizeof each of the cavities can vary (e.g., to vary widths of thepatterning). A depth of each of the cavities can vary (e.g., to varyheights of the patterning). Typically there will be one mold for thefront side of the chew toy and another mold for the back side.

In a specific implementation, the colored liquid silicone is squeezedinto the cavities of the mold by hand. However, in otherimplementations, the liquid silicone is inserted into the moldmechanically or using a machine (e.g., computer-controlled injection).Further, the mold is made of any material that has a higher meltingtemperature than the silicone such as a metal or high-temperatureplastic.

4. After the liquid silicone is placed in the mold, the liquid siliconeis heated to make it solidify (step 820). The liquid silicone is heatedto set the liquid silicone.

5. The solid silicone material is layered into the mold on top of thedecoration (step 824). In this step, the solid silicone material can beplaced over the solidified liquid silicone.

6. The solid and liquid silicone material are vulcanized together (step828). Compressing and heating may be done in a single process step. Inan implementation, compressing and heating are done simultaneously in acompressing machine. The temperature in the compressing machine may varyas long as the temperature is high enough to vulcanize the solid andliquid silicones together. Or compressing and heating may be performedin separate steps.

In an implementation, in the compressing machine, the solid silicone isheated to a temperature of about 200 degrees Celsius (about 392 degreesFahrenheit) for about 2 minutes, and the liquid silicone is heated to atemperature of about 160 degrees Celsius (about 320 degrees Fahrenheit)for about 2 minutes.

7. After vulcanization is complete, the finished chew toy is allowed tocool (step 832). In an implementation, cooling is by water cooling andthe cooling time is about 15 seconds.

8. Silicone flashing is removed from the chew toy (step 836). Thesilicone flashing can also be trimmed.

The finished chew toy can be packaged for sale. After step 8, asdiscussed above, the process can include further steps of usingadditional molds and liquid silicone layers that are applied on top ofthe already vulcanized liquid silicone. This is useful for creatingperhaps even more intricate patterning on the dog chew product.

Generally, the more intricate the patterning is, the more time it takesto make a chew toy, thus increasing its cost. For example, a chew toywith six stars will generally be more expensive to manufacture than achew toy with four stars. More time and material is needed to fill thetwo additional starts in the mold with liquid silicone. Also, anyadditional liquid silicone, mold, compression, and heating steps afterstep 7 would also increase the cost.

This silicone rubber manufacturing technique allows for the creation ofunique design features such as intricate multicolor and multileveldesign detailing, vibrant true colors without the use of paint, andnumerous shape and size options.

In an implementation, the base is made of solid silicone (e.g., 100percent silicone). In other implementations, the base can be hollow orinclude cavities, grooves, or compartments in which treats can beplaced. A chew toy with a treat can make the chew toy more interestingto pets because the odor of the treat attracts a pet to a toy. Then, thepet will continue to gnaw and chew at the chew toy.

Some examples of treats include beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish,peanut butter, chocolate, cheese, jelly, preserves, honey, nutella,marzipan, Vegemite, fruit, catnip, and others. The treats may be placedthere by the chew toy user or the manufacturer can insert a treat intothe chew toy during manufacture.

The chew toy can also be used to dispense treats. In an implementation,a silicone material serving as a base material for a chew toy includes acavity. The cavity can have an opening near a surface of the chew toy orcan be an interior or inner cavity.

FIG. 9 shows a specific implementation of a treat dispenser chew toy 904having a cavity 908. FIG. 10 shows a top view of the treat dispensertoy. FIG. 11 shows a bottom view of the treat dispenser toy. FIG. 12shows a cross sectional view of the treat dispenser toy.

In FIG. 9, the chew toy has a flying saucer shape that includes a roundportion 912 and a saucer portion 916. In an implementation, the roundand saucer portions are attached by fusing them together. The portionsare attached by melting and liquefying together the silicone of theround and saucer portions. In another implementation, the round andsaucer portions are attached by using silicone glue.

The round portion includes the cavity. Dimensions of the chew toy canvary. For example, dimensions of the cavity can vary. A solid treat canbe inserted into the cavity. In an implementation, the cavity is smallenough so that a user can push a solid treat into the cavity and thetreat will not fall out easily. The dog can continue to chew at the chewtoy before tasting the treat. Further, a diameter or thickness of thesaucer portion can vary. In an implementation, a diameter of the saucerportion is 127 millimeters (see FIG. 10). A distance from a top side ofthe round portion 1208 to a bottom side of the round portion 1212 isabout 55 millimeters. A distance from a left side of the round portion1216 to a right side of the round portion 1220 is about 70 millimeters.A thickness 1224 of the saucer portion is about 8 millimeters.

A diameter or distance 1228 of a top of the cavity is about 10millimeters. A distance from a first side 1232 to a second side 1236 isabout 25 millimeters. A distance from a third side 1240 to a fourth side1244 is about 33 millimeters. To prevent the chew toy from beingpunctured (e.g., by teeth or other sharp objects), the treat dispensertoy has a thickness of at least 8 millimeters from an outer surface ofthe round portion to the cavity. A thickness of the silicone is at least8 millimeters. A thickness of the circular portion can vary along theedges. For example, in an implementation, the treat dispensing toy has athickness of 9 millimeters along a first portion of the treat dispensingtoy and a thickness of 12 millimeters along a second portion of thetreat dispensing toy.

In an implementation, a cavity of the treat dispensing toy can hold avolume of 59 cubic centimeters.

A cavity of a chew toy can have different shapes and sizes. For example,FIG. 22 shows another implementation of a cross sectional view of a chewtoy 2204 having a round shaped cavity 2208. A treat can be placed in thecavity.

A depth of the cavity can vary according to how deep the manufacturer oruser wants the depth of the cavity to be. The greater the depth, theharder it may be for the pet to taste the treat. Further, a size of acavity can vary based on a size and shape of the chew toy.

A shape of the cavity can also vary. FIG. 13 shows a cross sectionalview of an implementation of the chew toy in FIG. 9. Chew toy 1304 has acavity 1308 in which a treat can be placed.

FIG. 14 shows a chew toy 1404 having a cavity (not shown). FIGS. 15-16show other views of the chew toy. FIG. 17 shows a cross sectional viewof the chew toy. FIG. 18 shows a bottom view of the chew toy.

In FIG. 16, a distance from a first corner 1608 to a second corner 1612of the chew toy is about 70 millimeters. A distance from a bottom 1616to a top 1620 of the chew toy is about 102 millimeters. FIG. 17 shows aninner cavity 1704 of the chew toy. The cavity extends from a top side1708 to a bottom side 1712 of the chew toy. The chew toy has a firstledge 1716 and a second ledge 1720. The ledges secure the treat in thecavity such that the treat does not easily fall out. For example, a usercan spread peanut butter on the ledges to more easily keep the peanutbutter in the cavity.

In FIG. 17, a diameter of a top side of the cavity is about 10millimeters. A diameter of a bottom side of the cavity is about 25millimeters. In this implementation, a diameter of the bottom side ofthe cavity side of the cavity is larger than a diameter of the top sideof the cavity. About 8 millimeters from a top side of the chew toy, adistance from a left side of the cavity to a right side of the cavityincreases. About 8 millimeters from a bottom side of the chew toy, adistance from a left side of the cavity to a right side of the cavityincreases. These distances can vary and be greater than or less than 8millimeters. A distance from a left side 1724 to a right side 1728 isabout 33 millimeters.

In FIG. 18, a distance from a first side corner 1808 of the chew toy toa second side corner 1812 of the chew toy is about 56 millimeters. Adistance from an outer edge of the chew toy to a side of the cavity isabout 8 millimeters.

In an implementation, the chew toy has a pyramidal shape and an innercavity of the pyramidal-shaped chew toy can hold a volume of 43 cubiccentimeters. In other implementations, an inner cavity of the chew toycan hold a volume of less than or greater than 43 cubic centimeters.

As discussed above, a cavity of a chew toy can have different shapes andsizes. A size of the cavity can vary depending on what a user desires toput in the cavity or based on the size and shape of the toy.

FIG. 19 shows another implementation of a cross section of the chew toyin FIG. 14. A chew toy 1904 includes a cavity 1908. A treat 1912 isinserted into the cavity through an opening 1916. The cavity has acircular or round shape. The opening can be placed at any location ofthe chew toy. The treat can be a variety of things. For example, in animplementation, the treat is food. In another implementation, the treatis catnip. In another implementation, the treat is an object having anappealing aroma.

FIG. 20 shows a front view of a specific implementation of a treatdispenser toy 2004 having a surface 2008 and ridges 2012 and 2016. FIG.21 shows a side view of a treat dispenser toy 2104 and a ridge 2108. Inan implementation, the ridges are raised strips and have a height 2112above the surface. The ridges can be filled with peanut butter or otherpaste treat. The ridges give a pet a pleasant tactile feel as the petlicks the treat off of the ridges. In an implementation, the ridges aremade of silicone material.

In FIG. 21, the ridge has a slope of zero. This is not intended to limitthe invention. A slope of a ridge can be greater or less than zero. Forexample, FIG. 22 shows a chew toy including a ridge 2204 having a slopeless than zero. A first side of a ridge has a first height 2208 on afirst side and a second side of a ridge has a second height 2212 on asecond side. The first height is greater than the second height.

The treat dispenser toy can also have ridges that are not elevated abovea surface of the treat dispenser toy. FIG. 23 shows anotherimplementation of a treat dispenser toy having ridges that extend towarda side 2308.

Further, in FIG. 20, the ridges have a rectangular shape. This is notintended to limit the invention. The ridges can have any shape. Forexample, in an implementation, the ridges are triangular-shaped,diamond-shaped, zigzag-shaped, star-shaped, or other. In addition, theridges can be text, graphics, illustrations, or other.

A length and width of the ridges can vary along a surface of the chewtoy. Further, ridges of a chew toy can be different lengths or widthsfrom other ridges of the chew toy. For example, in an implementation,chew toy has a first ridge that is 60 millimeters long and 4 millimeterswide, and a second ridge that is 35 millimeters long and 3 millimeterswide.

FIG. 24 shows a specific implementation of a treat dispenser toy 2404having ridges 2408, 2412, and 2416. The dispenser toy has a rocket shapewith fins 2406. FIG. 25 shows a front view of the treat dispenser toy.FIG. 26 shows a cross section of the treat dispenser toy. FIG. 27 showsa bottom view of the treat dispenser toy.

In FIG. 25, a distance from a first or left side 2508 to a second orright side 2512 of the treat dispenser toy is about 76 millimeters. Adistance from a third or top side 2516 to a fourth or bottom side 2520of the treat dispenser toy is about 102 millimeters. A height of thetreat dispenser toy is about 102 millimeters. These measurements mayvary depending on the size and shape of the chew toy.

In FIG. 26, a cavity 2608 extends from a top 2612 to a bottom 2616 ofthe treat dispenser toy. A distance from a left side to a right side ofa top of the cavity is about 10 millimeters. A distance from a left sideto a right side of a bottom of the cavity is about 25 millimeters. Adistance from a first side 2620 to a second side 2624 of a bottom of thetreat dispenser toy is about 33 millimeters. Ledges 2628 and 2632 arelocated at about 8 millimeters from the bottom side of the treatdispenser toy.

FIG. 27 shows the treat dispenser toy with fins 2708, 2712, 2716, and2720. Fin 2712 has ridges 2724, 2728, 2732, and 2736. Fin 2720 hasridges 2740, 2744, 2748, and 2752. A width of the ridges can vary.

A diameter of the bottom of the treat dispenser toy is about 48millimeters. A thickness of fin 2708 is about 18.6 millimeters. Adistance from a first side to a second side of fin 2708 is about 14millimeters. A thickness near a tip of fin 2712 is about 8 millimeters.

In an implementation, a cavity of the rocket can hold a volume of 57cm³. In other implementations, a cavity of the dispenser toy can hold avolume of less or greater than 57 cm³.

In an implementation, the base material for the chew toy is shaped tohave ridges. In this implementation, the solid liquid silicone is shapedto have ridges. In another implementation, the ridges are liquidsilicone that is mixed with a colorant and is compressed and heated tovulcanize the base material (e.g., solid) of the chew toy and liquidsilicones together.

FIG. 28 shows a specific process flow for making a silicone chew toyhaving a cavity:

1. Mix liquid silicone with silicone color paste (step 2808).

2. Load syringes with the colored liquid silicone (step 2812). One colorcan be loaded into one syringe.

3. Insert the colored liquid silicone in cavities of a mold according tothe pattern (step 2816).

4. Heat to set the liquid silicone (step 2820). In an implementation,the liquid silicone is heated for 3-5 minutes according to space.

5. Mix solid silicone with silicone color paste (step 2824).

6. Layer the solid silicone material into the mold on top of thedecoration (step 2828).

7. Close the mold and vulcanize the solid and liquid silicone together(step 2832).

8. Cool the solid and liquid silicone (step 2836).

9. Trim the silicone flashing (step 2840).

In another implementation, the chew toy has a combination of materials.FIG. 29 shows a chew toy having a silicone portion 2904 and a ropeportion 2908. The rope is a rope tug portion that a pet can also chewon. The silicone portion is connected or joined to the rope portionthrough a connecting means. In an implementation, the rope portion isglued to the silicone portion. In another implementation, the siliconeportion has an opening at a first end in which the rope portion is slidthrough. In the figure, the rope portion has a knot at the end. Inanother implementation, the rope portion does not have a knot at theend. In another implementation, the rope portion has a bow at the end.

The toy can be packaged for sale. FIG. 30 shows a specificimplementation of a chew toy package having a chew toy 3004, a card3008, and wires 3012 and 3016. The chew toy is attached or connected tothe card via the wires. A potential buyer can feel the silicone chew toybefore purchasing the product.

The card has the text “CHEW TOY” on it. This is not intended to limitthe invention. In an implementation, the card has graphics,illustrations, photos, other text, or a combination of these. The cardcan be made of various materials. For example, the card can be made ofrigid paper, plastic, cardboard, or other.

In the figure, the package has two wires. This is not intended to limitthe invention. The package can have less than two wires or more than twowires. In an implementation, the package has one wire. In anotherimplementation, the package has three wires. The more wires a packagecontains, the more expensive it may be to package the chew toy becausethe package uses more material and labor. Further, the wires can be madeof various materials. For example, the wires can be made of metal,plastic, or other.

In another implementation, the chew toy enclosed in a box. This helpsprevent the silicone chew toy from being touched before it is purchased.

Using 100 percent silicone for the chew toy has numerous benefits.Silicone is more reliable than other organic materials even underextreme conditions. It has tremendous resistance to temperature extremesfrom about 316 degrees Celsius (about 600 degrees Fahrenheit) to about−101 degrees Celsius (about −150 degrees Fahrenheit), retaining a farhigher tensile strength and tear resistance than do many organicrubbers. It substantially resists the deteriorating effects of sunlight,ozone, rain water, and atmospheric gases which cause weathering.Silicone does not cause staining, corrosion, or deterioration like othermaterials. As a result, the silicone chew toy is durable and can be leftoutside without fear of being damaged. This prevents designs on the bodyof the bone from being chewed out or damaged. Furthermore, it is waterresistant and flame retardant.

Other advantages of using silicone are that it is odorless andtasteless. This prevents the chew toy from having a bad taste when it isinitially used. Further, silicone will not support the growth of fungus,mold, or bacteria. This helps prevent the spread of germs and bacteria,and allows the silicone to be put in a person's or animal's mouth. Achew toy made of silicone will be tough but gentle on the gums.

As discussed above, in an implementation, the silicone used is a foodgrade silicone. Food grade silicone is nontoxic, does not stain food,dishes, or cookware, and is safe for use with foods that are to beconsumed by pets, humans, and animals. Food grade silicone can be usedin chew toys with compartments and cavities that will hold treats andfood for pets. The liquid and solid silicone of the chew toy are bothmade of food grade silicone. The pets will be able to chew the toy andeat the food without ingesting any harmful chemicals or toxicsubstances.

This description of the invention has been presented for the purposes ofillustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or tolimit the invention to the precise form described, and manymodifications and variations are possible in light of the teachingabove. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to bestexplain the principles of the invention and its practical applications.This description will enable others skilled in the art to best utilizeand practice the invention in various embodiments and with variousmodifications as are suited to a particular use. The scope of theinvention is defined by the following claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A silicone chew toy comprising: a baselayer, made from a solid silicone material of a first color, comprisinga first side and a second side, a thickness of at least 8 millimetersbetween the first and second sides, a minimum width of at least 38millimeters, and a minimum length of at least 38 millimeters; and afirst layer, made from a liquid silicone material of a second color,formed and vulcanized on the first side of the base layer, the firstlayer having a thickness of at least 0.5 millimeters, wherein the firstcolor is different from the second color, wherein the silicone chew toycomprising the base and first layers can withstand at least 100 poundsof bite pressure for at least 10 seconds without breakage.
 2. Thesilicone chew toy of claim 1 comprising: a second layer, made from aliquid silicone material of a third color, formed and vulcanized on thefirst side of the base layer, the second layer having a thickness of atleast 0.5 millimeters, wherein the third color is different from thefirst and second colors; and a gap, between a pattern of the first layerand a pattern of the second layer, wherein the first color comprisesless than 600 parts per million of lead.
 3. The silicone chew toy ofclaim 2 wherein the base layer is visible through the gap between thepatterns of the first and second layers.
 4. The silicone chew toy ofclaim 1 comprising: an opening in the base layer; and an interior cavityin the base layer, the interior cavity being joined to the opening,wherein through the opening an edible substance can be stored in theinterior cavity.
 5. The silicone chew toy of claim 1 comprising: a holeextending from the first side to the second side of the base layer; arope, looped through the hole in the base layer.
 6. The silicone chewtoy of claim 1 wherein the first layer has a greater thickness than thesecond layer.
 7. The silicone chew toy of claim 1 wherein a maximumwidth is different from a maximum length.
 8. The silicone chew toy ofclaim 1 wherein a maximum width is greater than a maximum length.
 9. Thesilicone chew toy of claim 1 wherein a maximum length is greater than amaximum width.